Publication

This commentary argues that China's growing economic and political power is likely to translate into an increased role for the state in regional and global affairs. The author argues that there is immense nationalistic pressure that pushes the top leadership in Beijing toward more confrontational foreign policies. The strategic impact of an increasingly assertive China will depend on whether its policies violate international norms and threaten the security of other states. The author concludes that regional security will be defined in part by the willingness and ability of the region to stand up to China's demands.